Mic Should Stay With Bn Not Join Pn

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 MIC is facing a critical juncture in its political journey, as discussions surrounding a potential shift from BN to Perikatan Nasional intensify.
The idea of joining PN, a relatively new coalition, may seem appealing to some, but the long-term consequences for MIC and its grassroots supporters could be dire.
While the allure of short-term gains is tempting, MIC must resist the temptation to leave behind its historical alliance with BN, especially considering the implications of aligning with a coalition that is not only uncertain but also increasingly influenced by the conservative elements of PAS.
MIC’s legacy within BN
Since its establishment in 1946, MIC has been a pillar of BN, a coalition that has governed Malaysia for most of the country’s post-independence history.
MIC’s role in BN has been vital for representing the Indian community and ensuring that their voices are heard in the national political discourse.
BN has historically provided MIC with a stable platform to influence policy decisions, secure development funds for the Indian community, and maintain its relevance in the broader Malaysian political landscape.
The party acted as a bridge between the Indian community and the ruling government.
Despite recent political turbulence and the fracturing of BN, MIC still retains substantial influence within the coalition.
The party’s connection with Umno, the dominant Malay party within BN, provides a certain level of security and a historical alliance that has benefited both sides.
Furthermore, BN’s long-standing experience in governance allows MIC to remain part of a well-established structure that understands the nuances of Malaysian multi-ethnic politics.
The dangers of moving to PN
Although PN has gained some ground since its formation in 2020, it remains a relatively new and untested coalition.
PN is largely composed of the Malay-centric Bersatu and the hardline Islamist party, PAS, along with smaller parties.
While PN has gained momentum, especially in Malay-majority regions, it does not have the same institutional strength or long-term stability as BN.
Its coalition structure is more fragile, with internal factions often competing for influence. This makes the coalition’s future uncertain.
ADSFor MIC, the move to PN could signal a shift into uncharted territory. The lack of an established relationship between MIC and the other PN parties, particularly PAS, could make it difficult for the party to navigate the complex and often unpredictable political landscape within the coalition.
The absence of a clear, shared vision for Malaysia’s diverse communities, particularly the Indian population, makes the alliance an especially risky proposition.
PAS’ influence detrimental to MIC
One of the most concerning aspects of joining PN is the increasing influence of PAS, a party known for its conservative and Islamic-centric policies.
PAS has consistently championed the agenda of Malay-Muslim supremacy, pushing for policies that marginalise Malaysia’s minority communities, including the Indian and Chinese populations.
As PAS gains more sway within PN, it is increasingly setting the tone for the coalition’s direction.
For MIC and the Indian community, this is a particularly troubling development. PAS’ rise in influence could lead to policies that undermine the rights and welfare of ethnic minorities.
Historically, PAS has been vocal about its desire to implement more Islamic-based laws, including increasing restrictions on non-Muslim religious practices and promoting an exclusionary form of Malay-Muslim nationalism.
These policies would be antithetical to the principles of pluralism and inclusivity that MIC has long fought for.
Aligning with PN, which is becoming more influenced by PAS’ ideology, risks putting MIC in a position where it may have to compromise its core values.
The Indian community, which has been loyal to MIC for decades, may lose confidence in the party if they perceive it as being aligned with a coalition that does not represent their interests.
MIC’s traditional role as a voice for moderate, multiracial politics could be eroded if it becomes associated with a party whose agenda is increasingly dominated by conservative Islamism.
Short-term gains vs long-term stability
Proponents of MIC’s shift to PN argue that it could bring immediate political advantages, such as more significant positions within the coalition or the ability to influence the direction of the government.
However, MIC’s leadership must carefully consider the long-term implications of such a move.
The party must ask itself: Will these short-term gains benefit the Indian community in the long run? Or will they risk MIC’s influence and stability in the broader Malaysian political sphere?
Moving away from BN could weaken MIC’s position, not just in terms of governance but also in terms of its relationship with its grassroots supporters.
MIC’s constituents are predominantly working-class Indians who rely on the party for access to government resources, education, and social services.
These voters have grown accustomed to the stability and support that BN offers. A sudden move to a new coalition like PN could leave them disillusioned and alienated, particularly if MIC’s role within PN becomes less prominent.
Moreover, the unpredictability of PN, especially with the influence of PAS, makes the coalition a risky partner for MIC. The party could end up being sidelined in favour of larger Malay-centric interests, with little room left to advocate for the Indian community’s needs.
MIC’s influence could diminish, and the party’s future would be left hanging on the whims of a coalition that is not committed to Malaysia’s diverse, multicultural fabric.
Potential end for MIC
The greatest concern for MIC is that a move to PN could signal the beginning of the end for the party’s political relevance.
As PAS continues to consolidate its power within PN, the party’s influence on government policy could marginalise the interests of non-Muslim communities, including the Indian community.
MIC’s historical role as a defender of Indian rights and interests could be rendered meaningless if the party becomes just another member of a coalition dominated by Malay-Muslim priorities.
The shift to PN could also alienate MIC from its traditional BN allies, including Umno, which could lead to further political isolation.
Over time, MIC could lose its relevance not just in BN but in the broader Malaysian political landscape as well. The party risks becoming a marginal force, with little influence or power to effect meaningful change for the Indian community.
Stability over uncertainty
MIC’s leadership must recognise that the long-term stability of the party and its future in Malaysian politics depends on maintaining its ties with BN, not seeking uncertain alliances with PN.
BN, despite its challenges, remains a more stable and established platform for MIC to continue representing the Indian community.
The rise of PAS within PN only further underscores the risks of aligning with a coalition that is increasingly committed to policies that may be detrimental to MIC’s core constituents.
MIC’s future must be rooted in preserving its legacy as a champion for ethnic minorities and upholding the values of inclusivity and multiculturalism that have defined its role in Malaysian politics.
The temptation to join PN may seem appealing in the short term, but MIC’s leadership must consider the lasting consequences of abandoning its historical alliance with BN.
The future of MIC and the Indian community it represents depends on staying with BN, where the party’s influence, stability, and ability to safeguard its interests will remain secure. - Mkini
R PANEIR SELVAM is the principal consultant of Arunachala Research & Consultancy Sdn Bhd, a think tank specialising in strategic national and geopolitical matters.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of MMKtT.

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